Two months after their triumphant return from CARIFESTA in Barbados, Saint Lucian designers and entrepreneurs remain filled with pride and gratitude. The event, a celebration of Caribbean culture and creativity, provided a platform for these artisans to showcase their talents and represent their nation on a regional stage. Their success was made possible through significant support from the Ministry of Culture and the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF), which provided stipends, travel assistance, and other resources to ensure their participation. This backing not only enabled their attendance but also helped them stand out among their peers, sharing Saint Lucia’s unique spirit with the Caribbean community. Veteran designer Queen Esther of Kuumba Designs expressed her appreciation for the support, noting that the festival was a place to connect with fellow artists and present her timeless creations. Similarly, Christine Samuel of Christy Creations and Lisa Barton-Volney of De Kloze Line highlighted the festival’s role in fostering collaboration and expanding their professional networks. The event also benefited from broader funding initiatives, including the Mobility Assistance Grant (MAG) and contributions from the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean (CAF). These efforts underscore the importance of cultural tourism and the creative economy in the region, providing invaluable exposure for Caribbean creatives and helping them reach new markets.
Caribbean governments continue tradition of supporting creatives at CARIFESTA
